BIG props for LE LAN

Last week, Brian Duncan of Bin 36 (339 N. Dearborn St., 312-755-9463) was named Chicago Wine Director of the Year by Gourmet magazine.

Now comes word that another River North gem, LE LAN (749 N. Clark St., 312-280-9100), has just been selected to receive Wine Enthusiast magazine’s Award of Unique Distinction for 2007.

The New Asian-focused eatery was one of a select number of restaurants in North America, out of thousands of applicants, to be honored with this level of recognition.